How did you think about hiring your first RevOps specialist role? What did you prioritize?

It's easier to teach the data side than the broad perspective. Look for someone with a generalist background and who is curious. If that person also has an "I own that challenge" mentality, you're golden, no matter what their business function background.

It's hard to find someone who has a good understanding of sales, marketing, customer success, and business analytics.
I would focus on a data-driven person who has the ability to see the big picture and a basic understanding of the three main departments. 

I have hired a couple of RevOps specialist roles and the ideal candidate has some experience in three of the following, sales, marketing, and customer success. You may not find a candidate that has all three so I also look for strong analytical and communication skills and the willingness to learn. Someone who has a strong sense of ownership can make up for a lot of experience that they might lack. We are knowledge workers. Being able to absorb information as well as present that knowledge creates value.